AC Milan have reportedly stepped up their interest in securing a deal for Liverpool centre-back Dejan Lovren during the summer transfer window.

The Croatia international only played a bit-part role for the Reds during the most recent campaign, with 17 appearances in all competitions.

The 29-year-old is still regarded as a key member of the squad by head-coach Jurgen Klopp, although the defender faces the prospect of being fourth-choice centre-back next season.

However, Sky Sports News claims that the Italian giants AC Milan are ready to provide Lovren an opportunity of a new challenge at San Siro.

The report adds that Rossoneri will wait before making a formal approach until a replacement has been named for the outgoing manager Gennaro Gattuso.

Lovren, who joined Liverpool from Southampton in 2014, has two years remaining on his contract at the Merseyside outfit.